Solar Panel Cost Guide in Staunton, IL (2025 Update)
- Staunton Solar Installation Cost: $16,257
- 25-Year Savings: $14,951
- Payback Period: 15.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Staunton
Here’s how much it might cost to install solar panels in Staunton.
In Staunton, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average Staunton homeowner needs a 6.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $16,257 with the federal tax credit, or $23,248 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in Staunton based on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $16,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Staunton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,407 |
| 3 years | $-13,705 |
| 5 years | $-12,004 |
| 7 years | $-10,303 |
| 9 years | $-8,601 |
| 11 years | $-6,900 |
| 13 years | $-5,199 |
| 15 years | $-3,497 |
| 17 years | $-1,796 |
| 19 years | $-95 |
| 21 years | $1,606 |
| 23 years | $3,308 |
| 25 years | $5,009 |
Top Solar Installers in Staunton
When going solar, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installer since handling can be a challenging project. Another great thing about going with a vetted solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your investment.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Staunton, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
See all of the solar companies in Staunton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Staunton
There are a number of factors that can determine your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,760.The kind of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will significantly impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to think about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Staunton homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it’s important to consider that as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will affect your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.91 | $16,424 | $9,565 | 15.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.84 | $21,477 | $13,175 | 15.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.76 | $26,320 | $16,995 | 15.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.68 | $30,952 | $21,026 | 14.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.61 | $35,374 | $25,267 | 14.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.53 | $39,585 | $29,719 | 14.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.46 | $43,586 | $34,382 | 14.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,376 | $39,255 | 13.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Staunton, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the durability of your solar panels, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
EcoWatch's Staunton, IL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Staunton?
The average cost of solar panels in Staunton is about $18,800 for a 5-kW system and $37,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Staunton?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Staunton, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your power bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Staunton?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.